Transfer window: Stoke sign Juan Agudelo but fail to get work permit

Stoke City have confirmed the signing of United States international Juan Agudelo but were forced to send him on loan to FC Utrecht after failing to obtain a work permit for the striker.

The striker, who has 17 caps, signed from Major League Soccer side New England Revolution on a free transfer.

But the Premier League club's November bid for a work permit was rejected, and they cannot reapply until March.

Who is Juan Agudelo?

Born on 23 November 1992 in Colombia before moving to the US aged eight

Came through the New York Red Bulls academy, signed first professional contract in 2010

Made international debut for US in 2010. Has picked up 17 caps and scored two goals

Joined Chivas USA in 2012

Moved to New England Revolution in 2013

They have sent Agudelo, 21, to the Dutch club until a second bid is made.

"We were surprised and bitterly disappointed when our application for a work permit was rejected by the appeals panel - as were many other people in the game," said chief executive Tony Scholes.

"It's still our view that Juan is a great talent and is a player that [manager] Mark Hughes would like to join our squad. We have therefore decided that we are going to reapply for a work permit at the earliest opportunity."

Stoke have already signed a striker in the January transfer window with the acquisition of John Guidetti, 21, on loan from Manchester City for the rest of the season.